Midlevel Landscape Designer

SWA Group; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading landscape architecture firm in San Francisco is seeking a talented Landscape Architect who excels in translating design ideas into built reality. The ideal candidate should have 2–5 years of experience, technical proficiency in design software, and a collaborative spirit. Join an award-winning team that values creativity and rigor while shaping the Bay Area and beyond.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in landscape architecture or related fields.
• Experience with construction documentation and site observation.
• Comfortable in construction environments and with PPE.

Responsibilities

• Translate complex designs into built reality and ensure design excellence.
• Coordinate with consultants and contractors on projects.
• Be hands-on with drawings, site visits, and project management.

Skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Communication

Self-motivation

Collaborative spirit

Education

Degree in landscape architecture or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Adobe Suite

Microsoft Office

Rhino

SketchUp

Revit

Job description

We're looking for a Landscape Architect with a strength in (or a desire to learn) the technical side of design. Our SF Studio is looking for someone who loves the details, thinks like a builder, and thrives in the reality of translating complex design into real places. You'll be hands-on throughout the process, translating bold ideas into built reality, coordinating with consultants, redlining drawing sets, visiting job sites, working with contractors on exciting projects, and ensuring design excellence.

You Are:

• A creative problem solver who knows the power of well-drawn plans and details.
• Interested in how things go together from pavers to planting, to on-structure assemblies, and everything in between.
• Committed to seeing your designs built with excellence.
• Interested in planting and knows a bit about it too.
• A communicator with an opinion who can talk to your co-workers, contractors, and clients with clarity and confidence.
• Comfortable on site, in boots or Blundstones… you know what PPE is and how to rock it.
• Organized, proactive, and excited to grow with a team that values rigor and creativity equally.
• Self-motivated and self-managing, but you also know that it's ok to ask questions and to ask for help…We are a team after all, and we want you to succeed.

You Have:

• A degree in landscape architecture or a related field
• 2–5 years of experience (we're flexible for the right fit)
• Strong skills in AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, and Microsoft Office. Graphic programs like Rhino and SketchUp would be helpful. We are also using Revit; some experience with this would be great, but you can learn here too.
• Experience with construction documentation, site observation, and construction administration.
• A collaborative spirit and sense of humor (essential!)
• A drive to see your work built.

Why Here, Why Now?
Because the work matters. Because we believe landscape design is a tool for equity, resilience, and delight. Because we're a studio that cares about mentorship, music playlists, ideas, late critiques, rooftop lunches, and making things that last.

Apply If You're Ready To:

• Sweat the details without losing the big picture.
• Be part of an award-winning team shaping the Bay Area and beyond.
• Bring your full self to the table and the field.
• Work with a team that supports your professional growth, involves you in meaningful work, and empowers you to make a tangible impact on projects.

Apply:

• Resume/CV (word or PDF)
• Design Portfolio highlighting built projects, technical experience, and construction administration experience (PDF, 20MB max.)
• Email or cover letter
• Contact info for 2-3 references